JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (Jan. 17, 2013) – With the spring semester beginning on Thursday, the ETSU baseball team returned to campus and has begun preparations for the 2013 season.

The Bucs – whose roster features six seniors, eight juniors, five sophomores, and 13 freshmen – started team workout sessions Thursday inside the Dome. After a productive fall season, the Blue and Gold are excited to hit the field next week for their first day of practice at Thomas Stadium on Jan. 25.

“It was great to finally have everyone together again for Wednesday’s meeting,” said head coach Tony Skole. “Our first conditioning session was very intense this morning. It looked like our guys came back in good shape. I was very pleased with the effort and passion they showed. They were very excited to see each other and I’ve been amazed all year how well these guys interact together.

“Preparing for the start of the season is one of my favorite times of the year as a coach. Our staff feels very good about the preseason plan we have put together. My assistants are extremely organized, while the structure and process of our preparation is very sound. There is always great excitement and anticipation, and it sure is an exciting time to come to work. Our goal is simply to try and be the best we can be each and every day. If we can win each day, the tomorrows will take care of themselves.”

ETSU opens the 2013 season with a three-game weekend series against Big Ten foe Penn State on Friday, Feb. 15 from Thomas Stadium.

“Obviously, with only 28 sleeps left until Opening Day, time is of the essence,” said Skole. “We simply cannot afford to have an unproductive day.”

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